SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 9, 2017) – Nonprofit organization Embrace has received additional funding for the recently launched Game Changer program. The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) recently awarded the program with a $24,500 grant to support operations and costs associated with implementation and expansion in San Diego, CA. SDPD joined a growing list of investors in the 8-month-old program that includes Alliance Healthcare Foundation (AHF), San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), San Diego County, the Urban League of San Diego County and the San Diego Police Officers Association, totaling $37,500.

Game Changer 2017 Informational Video

Game Changer utilizes sport/entertainment events to create safe space for dialogue and understanding between law enforcement, members of the judicial and legislative branches of local government and lay members of the community. Rooted in behavioral psychology, Game Changer is designed to bring about changes in perception, leading to changes in behavior, leading to a greater number of peaceful outcomes. The model provides education to participants while increasing understanding, familiarity, comfort and a greater sense of human connection through time spent communicating during the focus group, followed by socializing at a sporting/entertainment event.

“We are proud to support Embrace through the SAFE San Diego initiative. Game Changer is helping to generate new ideas and form meaningful connections that in turn help create safer communities,” said Penney Newell, SDG&E Senior Community Relations Manager.

San Diego Police Department Chief Shelley Zimmerman added, “Sports bring us all together and unite us around a common goal much like the Game Changer program. With Game Changer, we are able to open lines of communication and strengthen the bonds we share with our community. The relationships we build carry out into the field to help keep San Diego safe”.

Since December, 2016, Embrace has hosted over 160 participants at 13 Game Changer events. Seven Game Changer events are scheduled for the month of August, 2017, with several additional events in September, 2017 thanks to multiple community partners which includes ticket donations from the San Diego Padres, Fox Sports and Tickets for Kids Charities.